Saturday, February 14, 2009

Should You Buy A Gym Membership Or Just Exercise At Home?

By Brian Newsomb

In the quest to keep fit perhaps the most difficult decision is whether to exercise at home or join a gym. There are many advantages to both choices, but choose wisely. The wrong decision could ruin your fitness goals.

Before choosing where to exercise, you should first write down your objectives you hope to achieve in exercising. Determine whether your goal is to bulk up in the muscle department or simply to keep tone. Once you have set your goals then you can go about deciding which location will help you reach your goal.

There are obvious advantages and disadvantages in exercising at home versus the gym and vice-versa. Let's talk about the advantages of working out at home. The first and most favorable advantage to exercising at home is the savings. A gym membership can become quite costly over time. Don't fool yourself though; working out at home can cost you a pretty penny upfront. If you want to build muscle you will need to invest in a good weight set. Looking to do cardio? Unless you can afford a treadmill or elliptical; you may have to settle for a cardio training DVD.

I think you're beginning to get the picture. If your fitness needs require more than a simple exercise routine; the gym may be the place for you. Though joining a gym involves a membership fee, the expense may just keep you motivated. No wants to throw money away and there's nothing worse than paying for a gym membership and not going. No doubt the biggest advantage in joining a gym is the equipment. You will have the newest fitness equipment at your disposal at most gyms. A gym also has added perks including, various cardio classes, personal training and in some cases even pools and spas.

When deciding whether to exercise at home or the gym; keep in mind that one will motivate you more than the other. If you've tried unsuccessfully to exercise at home you're not alone. Many find a lack of motivation at home and end up quitting their routine after a few days. If that sound like you make a change; join the gym. The expense of the gym may keep you going simply because you're paying for it. There are others who have joined the gym but, when the excitement wears off or life's demands come calling they quit going. If this sounds like you; why not try exercising at home. At home you can set up an exercise schedule that suits your needs. Just be sure to stay away from the couch and T.V.

You've already made the most important decision; the decision to exercise. Stick with it and whether you are at the gym or at home you'll be glad that you've decided to take keep fit. - 15438

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